Secche della Meloria

Meloria Shoal is a vast area of shallow rocky seabeds, covering approximately 90 km² off the coast of Livorno. They include Posidonia oceanica meadows, photophilic algal communities and coralligenous formations in deeper zones. The Posidonia meadows are well-structured with high coverage and density. Despite anthropogenic disturbances, many areas maintain good ecological conditions. The “catini” are depressions with sandy substrate. The populations within the “catini” exhibit high biodiversity and rare species. The area boasts rich biodiversity due to the complex seafloor morphology.